P&O Maritime boosts logistics with Speedcast's SIGMA platform

P&O Maritime Logistics' support vessels are set to receive enhanced connectivity path management and network control as part of a multi-year communication management contract awarded to Speedcast. A total of 59 vessels operating across three continents and 12 countries will have access to the cutting-edge SIGMA management and edge computing platform aimed at bolstering vital logistics and maritime assistance for offshore energy, port services, and cargo transportation.

The SIGMA platform will aid the vessels in establishing a software-automated network, incorporating both GEO and LEO VSAT, 5G, and L-band solutions, delivering superior service experience and reliability. This innovative partnership will also introduce novel applications from Speedcast, encompassing next-generation firewalling, enhanced onboard internet, critical voice communication, and remote access.

P&O Maritime Logistics, renowned for their efficient provision of critical support in logistics and marine solutions for offshore energy, port services, and cargo transportation, will be able to channel their proprietary applications through SIGMA as virtual machines. These advances come as a result of the latest upgraded SIGMA software released by Speedcast in 2023, which is fortified with server-grade appliances and is thus capable of running enterprise-grade SD-WAN and other containerised applications.

Andre Eerland, Vice President of Commercial Maritime at Speedcast, highlighted the significance of their partnership with P&O Maritime Logistics. He stated, "P&O Maritime Logistics is a leading provider of critical logistics support and marine solutions for offshore energy, port services and cargo transportation."

"We believe they selected Speedcast over the incumbent service provider because we offer the most extensive network, the technical and personnel support infrastructure, and the market-leading software toolset designed for the needs of the maritime sector," said Eerland. 

The SIGMA platform is the cornerstone of access to Speedcast's global networks, functioning across GEO, MEO, LEO, L-band satellite, LTE, microwave, and fibre. The cloud-based platform offers network optimisation, intelligent path selection, load balancing, link prioritisation and monitoring, and application steering.

The SD-WAN software consistently monitors every network path for availability, throughput, and quality of service, ensuring the best performance regardless of location or weather conditions. This also allows for efficient use of bandwidth, reducing the total capacity and cost needed to meet requirements.

Kris Vedat, Head of Technology and Logistics at P&O Maritime Logistics asserted that the partnership reflects a mutual objective of achieving operational success. "We look forward to partnering with Speedcast to ensure the highest efficiency of our globally dispersed logistics fleet. This agreement solidifies our confidence in the Speedcast team to deliver on our connectivity requirements and speaks to the complementary technology goals our organisations both hold for achieving operational success," Vedat affirmed.